The buzz around the UAE Golden Visa has taken over headlines in India lately. With reports suggesting Indians can secure lifetime residency in the UAE at a one-time cost of AED 100,000 (roughly ₹23.3 lakh), the excitement is understandable. But here’s the catch—just having the money isn’t enough to get you the visa.
While the UAE has indeed introduced a new nomination-based Golden Visa model for Indians and Bangladeshis, it’s not an open invitation to everyone with a bank balance. According to official UAE government guidelines, eligibility still depends on your profile, background, and purpose—not just payment.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that allows foreigners to live, work, or study in the UAE. It comes with a host of benefits: 5- or 10-year validity, multiple-entry flexibility, no sponsor required, permission to stay abroad for long periods, and the ability to sponsor your family and domestic help.
But every applicant is filtered through specific, merit-based eligibility criteria depending on whether they apply as an investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, student, or humanitarian.
So Why Can’t Every Indian With ₹23 Lakh Get One?
That ₹23 lakh fee under the nomination-based model only waives the requirement for property or business investment, but it doesn’t guarantee automatic approval. UAE authorities still conduct strict checks on professional background, criminal records, and even your online footprint.
According to Rayad Group’s MD Rayad Kamal Ayub—one of the authorised agencies—every applicant must pass anti-money laundering protocols, social media reviews, and character vetting. Simply paying the fee doesn’t buy you residency; the UAE wants people who add value to their society and economy.
Different Routes, Different Rules
For example, investors still need to put in AED 2 million (about ₹4.6 crore) into a recognised UAE fund or property. Plus, they must prove the money isn’t borrowed and show valid health insurance and tax payments in the UAE.
Entrepreneurs are expected to run businesses worth over AED 500,000 (₹1.1 crore), usually in tech or innovation sectors, and get approvals from local incubators and authorities.
Specialised professionals—such as doctors, artists, scientists, and corporate executives—need endorsements from UAE government bodies. Executives must also earn at least AED 50,000 (₹11.6 lakh) per month and have over five years of work experience.
Even students need to show academic excellence—either scoring 95% in high school or graduating with top GPAs from globally ranked institutions.
The nomination model aims to simplify things, but that doesn’t mean the UAE is compromising on quality. It’s still a carefully curated program with checks to prevent misuse.
The Application Process Simplified
The first step is choosing the right category—investor, entrepreneur, talent, student, or humanitarian. Once that’s done, applicants must gather all required documents like financial proof, certificates, letters of recommendation, and identification.
Applications can be submitted online via the ICP portal (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship), or through licensed agencies such as Rayad Group, VFS Global, and One Vasco. The UAE also offers a “One Touch” Golden Visa service that bundles document collection, visa processing, and ID generation into a single, hassle-free step.
After submission, authorities carry out detailed background checks. If approved, you receive a long-term UAE residency visa, with the right to bring your family, hire staff, and work or do business legally.
Still Confused? Here’s What You Can Do
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, the best way forward is to consult official sources:
- Visit the ICP website or use the ICP mobile app
- Contact GDRFAD (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai) for location-specific help
- Reach out to authorised agencies like Rayad Group or VFS
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Money—It’s About Merit
The UAE Golden Visa sounds like a dream deal, especially with its lifetime perks and flexibility. But the truth is, it’s not a product you can buy off the shelf. Whether you’re a professional, investor, student, or entrepreneur, the program is designed to reward those who genuinely contribute to the UAE’s future.
So, before you wire that ₹23 lakh, make sure you understand what the country expects from you—and whether you truly fit the bill.
